Wine Tasting
The quaint town of Beaune, France was the second stop on our tour. The town was small and wonderful, everything you imagine when French Countryside comes to mind. Surrounded by vineyards, streets lined with bakeries, and buildings as old as time. We had a fantastic meal in Beaune and enjoyed a wine tasting prior to eating. Our wine tasting expert, Martine, was fun and knowledgable. The centuries old cavern set the mood. The wine was flavorful and robust. This was a very relaxing evening. I can't give an exact amount, but many bottles of wine were consumed and purchased that night!
The Vineyards
Linda & Mom outside a vineyard
We spent only one night in Beaune. The following morning, Mom, Linda and I pulled out our books and found our way to the vineyards outside of town. The vineyards were just as I had hoped. The countryside was beautiful and the weather was perfect! The vineyards were lined with crumbling brick walls and dirt paths. It was truly a step back in time. The brief walk was just as much fun. We passed through residential streets and even talked to a local about her lovely gardens. I fell in love with Beaune, its crumbling architecture and the vineyards!
Beaune
Hotel Dieu
Hotel Dieu is an old Hospice that saw its last patient in 1971. This is probably the only true tourist attraction in Beaune. The cities old world charm and rustic countryside is enough to draw in any passer-by. I loved this town and given the chance to go back to France, I would return to Beaune. We spent one night and half of the following day in Beaune before heading out towards Switzerland. It was a great way to unwind after the bustle of Paris and before beginnning the physical activity required to explore the Alps!